Upland Makes ‘Big Move’ Into Chicago Market
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowBloomington-based Upland Brewing Co. has announced a partnership to begin beer distribution in Chicago. The company believes the city's strong craft beer scene makes it a “natural next step” for expansion. Upland's products are expected to hit taps and store shelves next month. A spokeswoman says the brewery currently does not have plans to grow outside the Midwest. Upland recently inked wholesale agreements in Ohio and Kentucky.
September 9, 2013
News Release
Bloomington, Ind. — Upland Brewing Company today announced a partnership with River North to expand its wholesale beer distribution network into Chicago, significantly enhancing Upland's existing Midwest distribution channels. An initial selection of Upland’s top selling beers is scheduled to hit taps and retail shelves in Chicago starting in October.
“Over the past 15 years we've built a brewery known for great beer, consistent organizational excellence, and made a lot of friends while being an active partner in our many communities,” said Upland President Doug Dayhoff. “The tremendous reception of Upland’s recent wholesale expansions into Ohio and Kentucky has created an opportunity for even more growth. There is a thirsty and large population of Bloomington transplants in Chicago. This, combined with Chicago's strong craft beer scene, made our expansion into the Windy City a natural next step. We anticipate strong reception as we move into Chicago with River North, a proven and respected distributor for some of the world's most renowned brands.”
Upland will bring their most popular beers to Chicago…Upland Wheat and Upland Dragonfly IPA. In addition a rotating seasonal selection will be available starting with Upland Infinite Wisdom Tripel and Upland Harvest Ale – An American Pale Ale vibrantly wet-hopped with freshly harvested Citra hops. The beers will be available in both package and draught. When available, the brewery will bring rare and specialty beers to continue driving excitement among craft beer lovers in the Chicago market. To keep informed of where to find Upland’s limited release beers in Chicagoland, please visit www.facebook.com/rivernorthbeer.
River North is a privately held distributor that sells and markets some of the world's most renowned brands including over 60 of the finest importers and American craft breweries. For more information on River North, visit them at www.rivernorthbeer.com.
Upland has been brewing ales, lagers, and sours in Bloomington, Indiana since 1998. Many of their beers are interesting twists on traditional recipes, but the lineup also includes numerous unique brewer creations. Upland brews over thirty beers, which in addition to Chicago are also distributed in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Wisconsin. The brewery has won numerous awards at regional, national, and international competitions, and had two beers recently recognized in the Top 40 Best Craft Beers of 2012 by The Full Pint.
Source: Upland Brewing Co.